2026 Overland Expo SoCal
This event has finished.
The 2027 edition runs 13 to 14 March.
Why You Should Go
See and test overland gear in person, learn practical skills from experts, and connect with the overlanding community.
Format
Two-Day Event
Crowd
A mix of weekend outdoor-vehicle enthusiasts, families, DIY travelers, and industry professionals; busiest mid-day on Saturday.
Vibe
Educational and gear-focused with a community, festival-like atmosphere around demo areas and pavilions.
About This Event
Overland Expo SoCal 2026 brings the national overlanding trade show to the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa for two days of exhibitors, hands-on classes, and vehicle showcases. Expect product demos, learning tracks, DIY areas, and a large vendor floor focused on self-reliant travel and vehicle-based camping.
The event runs March 14–15, 2026 with day passes and class/package tickets sold through the official site. Programming includes 100+ hours of education, specialty pavilions, and a mix of manufacturers, outfitters, and community groups.
1What to Expect
A concentrated showcase of overland equipment, classes, and community programming aimed at vehicle-based travel and remote camping.
What makes it worth the trip:
- Wide exhibitor mix: 400+ brands and outfitters with hands-on demos and aftermarket gear.
- Deep programming: 100+ hours of practical sessions from route planning to vehicle maintenance.
- Community and specialty pavilions: Women Who Wander, learning labs, and DIY demo areas.
Best way to experience it:
Arrive early on Saturday for the exhibitor floor, pick a few high-priority classes and reserve seat/package tickets in advance, and schedule demo time at vendor booths. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a daypack for brochures and swag.
Good to know:
- Some classes require separate paid registration; check the ticket page before you go.
- On-site food and bars are available but expect lines at peak times.
About the Venue
While you're in the area
Experiences near OC Fair & Event Center
2Frequently Asked Questions
- Great if you want to inspect and compare overland gear in person.
- Great if you enjoy hands-on classes about navigation, recovery, and vehicle prep.
- Great if you like meeting builders, outfitters, and other overland travelers.
- Maybe skip if you prefer a quiet, non-commercial backpacking or hiking-focused event.
3Cost Breakdown
Known: day passes and separate class/package tickets are sold through the official event page; some workshops require additional paid registration. On-site costs include food and optional paid demos. Exact ticket prices and class fees are listed on the organizer's ticketing pages.
Tags
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